National Garden Scheme Day

Colorful flower garden with a person wearing a sun hat, surrounded by butterflies and a white picket fence.. — National garden scheme day illustration

Welcome to WhatNationalDayIsIt.com, where we uncover the fascinating history behind every national day! Today, we're diving into the world of National Garden Scheme Day. So grab your gardening gloves and get ready for a blooming good time!

When is Garden Scheme Day?

It's national garden scheme day on the 17th July.

National Garden Scheme Day: An Oasis of Greenery

Every year on National Garden Scheme Day, green thumbs and nature enthusiasts come together to celebrate the beauty of gardens. Whether you have a lush backyard oasis or just a few potted plants on your balcony, this day is all about appreciating the wonder and tranquility that gardens bring to our lives.

The origins of National Garden Scheme Day can be traced back to the United Kingdom in 1927. The National Garden Scheme (NGS), formerly known as the Yellow Book Scheme, was founded by Miss Elsie Wagg and Sir Frederick Stern. The NGS was established with the aim of raising money for charity by opening private gardens to the public. What a brilliant idea, right?

Since its inception, the NGS has grown into a nationwide phenomenon with thousands of gardens participating each year. From grand stately homes to cozy cottage gardens, there's a garden out there for everyone to explore and enjoy. It's a fantastic opportunity to gather inspiration for your own green space or simply admire the hard work and creativity of others.

On National Garden Scheme Day, visitors can purchase tickets to explore the participating gardens. The ticket sales go towards supporting various UK charities, including healthcare and nursing charities. So not only do you get to spend a delightful day outdoors, but you also contribute to worthy causes. It's a win-win situation!

Did You Know?

Did you know that the NGS is famous for its delicious homemade cakes served in many of the gardens? Yes, that's right! You can indulge your taste buds while surrounded by natural beauty. It's like having tea with Mother Nature herself.

History behind the term 'Garden Scheme'

17th Century

The Emergence of Orchards

In the 17th century, gardens were primarily used for growing food, and orchards occupied a significant portion of these gardens. Fruit trees like apples, pears, and cherries were cultivated to provide a sustainable source of fresh produce for households. These gardens were essential for both survival and sustenance.

18th Century

The Rise of Formal Gardens

During the 18th century, formal gardens gained popularity, inspired by the French and Italian styles. The concept of symmetry and geometric patterns came into play. These gardens featured well-trimmed hedges, topiaries, parterres, and neatly arranged flower beds. The focus was on elegance and evoking a sense of orderliness and grandeur.

19th Century

The Victorian Era's Ornamental Gardens

In the 19th century, the Victorian era brought a shift towards ornamental gardens. The emphasis was on beauty, aesthetics, and showcasing floral diversity. Lush flower beds, ornate fountains, and intricate pathways filled with fragrant blooms became the hallmark of grand estates and public parks. People began to create garden schemes to design and plan their ornamental gardens.

20th Century

Garden City Movement

The early 20th century witnessed the emergence of the Garden City movement, led by urban planners like Ebenezer Howard. This movement aimed to create self-contained communities with a balance between urban and rural environments. The term 'garden scheme' was adopted to describe planned residential communities that incorporated green spaces, parks, and communal gardens to improve the overall quality of life.

Present Day

Modern Interpretations

In modern times, the term 'garden scheme' encompasses diverse interpretations. It can refer to an organized plan for cultivating a specific type of garden, such as a cottage garden, herb garden, or vegetable garden. Additionally, 'garden scheme' can describe a government initiative or community-led project aimed at promoting urban greening, sustainable landscaping, and environmental conservation.